10 Day Morocco Fossil Hunting Tour: Unearth the Wonders of Ancient Life

Join us on an extraordinary journey through Morocco’s breathtaking landscapes, where ancient geological formations tell the story of life millions of years ago. This 10-day tour is designed for fossil enthusiasts and nature lovers, providing a unique opportunity to explore fossil-rich sites, interact with local miners, and experience Morocco’s rich cultural heritage. Duration: 10 Days/9 Nights Tour Price: Starting from $2,800 per person (based on double occupancy). Single supplement available upon request.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech

Upon your arrival in Marrakech, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Take the day to relax and acclimate, or venture into the vibrant streets of this historic city. Explore local markets, taste Moroccan delicacies, or visit iconic sites such as the Koutoubia Mosque or the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square.

Day 2: Crossing the Atlas Mountains and Discovering Kasbah Ait-Ben-Haddou

After breakfast, we begin our journey through the stunning Atlas Mountains. Our first stop is an agate mine near Sidi Rahal, where you can search for beautiful agate specimens with pink opal layers. As we ascend to the Col du Tichka (2260 meters), you’ll witness a rich tapestry of geological layers dating back to the Cambrian, Ordovician, Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods. After a scenic break at the summit, we’ll visit a traditional salt mine and continue to Kasbah Ait-Ben-Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning architecture and cinematic history. Spend the night in Ouarzazate.

Day 3: Exploring Ancient Fossils of the Draa Valley

In the morning, we venture to a remarkable site featuring 600-million-year-old stromatolites, some of the oldest fossilized life forms on Earth. Continuing our exploration, we arrive in the Draa Valley, celebrated for its giant Ordovician trilobites. We’ll then examine the Fezouata Shale Lagerstätte, known for its exceptional fossil preservation from the Burgess Shale-type fauna. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in the enchanting Zagora desert.

Day 4: The Orthoceras Quarry and Fossil Hunting in Alnif

Today, we start at the Saredrar Orthoceras quarry, where beautiful fossil artifacts are crafted from ancient marine life. Next, we travel to Alnif, known for its vibrant fossil shops and sites abundant in Cambrian trilobites. A visit to Jebel Tiskaouine, famous for its diverse Ordovician trilobite fossils, rounds out the day. Overnight accommodations will be provided near Alnif.

Day 5: The Maider Basin’s Rich Fossil Heritage

Our exploration begins at Boudib, situated on Jbel Isoumour, renowned for its Devonian fossil deposits. We’ll then visit the village of Fezzou to meet local miners and observe their work, gaining insight into fossil extraction at Atchana. Our day culminates in the Ihandar Formation, where you’ll encounter more Devonian fossils. Spend the night in the remote yet charming oasis of Mharch.

Day 6: Fossil Exploration and Erg Chebbi Dunes

Starting your day at Guelb el Mharch, a former submarine mud volcano, we’ll explore Jbel El Mrakib for its stunning Devonian fossils. Afterward, we’ll travel to Merzouga, the gateway to the magnificent Erg Chebbi dunes. Enjoy the tranquility of the desert landscape and spend the night under the stars in a comfortable desert camp.

Day 7: Discovering Cretaceous Fossils at Kem Kem

On this day, we journey to the Kem Kem site, famous for its rich deposits of Cretaceous dinosaur fossils. Following this, we’ll visit a geological site near Taouz to uncover more fossil treasures, and explore the Filon 12 mine, renowned for its exquisite mineral specimens. Return to your desert camp for another night in Merzouga.

Day 8: Scenic Wonders of Todra Gorge and Dades Valley

Rise early to witness a stunning sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast, we’ll travel to Rissani, where you can explore a local fossil museum and the bustling traditional market. As we continue, we’ll drive through picturesque Berber villages, stopping at Mellab or Tinjdad for lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the breathtaking Todra Gorge, a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing, before heading to Dades Gorge for an overnight stay in a charming Riad. Accommodation: Riad in Dades Gorge

Day 9: Return to Marrakech via Amdhil Kasbah

After breakfast, we’ll begin our journey back to Marrakech, stopping at Amdhil Kasbah, known for its impressive architecture and scenic backdrop. Enjoy the stunning views of the M’goun mountains before arriving in Marrakech around 4 PM. You’ll have free time to explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or indulge in a delicious dinner.

Day 10: Departure from Marrakech

Depending on your flight schedule, we will arrange a transfer from your hotel to the airport, concluding your unforgettable 10-day journey through Morocco’s rich geological and fossil heritage.